Just as Dairy Foods was wrapping up its research into the 100 largest dairy processors in North America, the French dairy giant Danone announced it was buying Colorado-based WhiteWave Foods, a processor of organic dairy and plant-based beverages.

It was one of 12 food processing facilities nominated for the award. Dairy Foods invited the dairy industry to vote and help select the recipient. During a five-week period ending July 6, more than 3,500 votes were cast.

If you are the second- or third-generation family member running a dairy operation, chances are you were too young (or not yet born) to recall the enormity of starting up the business. Often, these dairy entrepreneurs did not have a lot of cash, reams of marketing data or industry-specific knowledge.

 By supporting dairy farmers and creating a pool of milk for processors, we improve the condition of animals, provide jobs and develop nutritious dairy foods and beverages. 

Dutch Farms is seeing dramatic growth in its exports; the company won a 2013 Illinois Export Award.

 The owners of Lioni Latticini find success in the United States by producing the same authentic fresh mozzarella their family made in Italy for generations. New equipment and technology makes the cheesemaker more efficient. 

 Quality Chekd honored Umpqua Dairy Products Co.’s plant in Oregon with the sought-after Production Excellence Award. A veteran production crew and attention to detail yield high- quality Grade A products, ice cream and frozen yogurt. 

Oregon’s Umpqua Dairy promotes the quality and freshness of its locally sourced milk. The third-generation family business, which also makes cottage cheese, sour cream, ice cream and other dairy products, is expanding beyond the Pacific Northwest.